Politics live: Tony Burke to give statement about Iranian footballers; EU to sign defence partnership with Australia

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 1 min read 100% complete by Martin FarrerMarch 9, 2026 at 08:40 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is expected to make a statement regarding Iranian female footballers who were granted asylum after a dramatic night in Queensland. Economists warn that surging oil prices, reaching US$115 a barrel, increase the risk of the Reserve Bank hiking interest rates soon, with markets anticipating rates will remain higher for longer. Australia is considering a request for assistance from a friendly nation in the Indo-Pacific, potentially a Gulf state, that has been targeted by indiscriminate rocket fire from Iran, but will assess its capabilities and national interests first. The EU is also expected to sign a defence partnership with Australia.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Queensland 40% Reserve Bank 60% Indo-Pacific 60% Iran ×270% European Union 70% Tony Burke 80% Australia ×490%

Keywords

australia 90% interest rates 80% oil prices 70% asylum 60% national interest 60% indo-pacific 50% iranian footballers 50% defence partnership 50% reserve bank 50%